Japanese Sword Markings

[Alan Smith]

Below are photos of WWII-era Japanese swords that I would like some help in identifying the makers' markings on. Both swords came from a U.S. Army enlisted man who (as a sargent) oversaw a repatriation camp at Hario, Japan (near Sasebo Naval Base) where Japanese POW's from out in the Pacific islands were brought in via ship, processed, then discharged back into civilian life. The POW's were stripped of all military gear, including these swords and the Type 38 carbine.

Any information would be most appreciated.

[Alan Smith]

Sword #1 (Black Handle)

[Alan Smith]

Sword #1 (w/black handle)

[Alan Smith]

Sword #1 (w/ Black Handle)

[Alan Smith]

Sword #2 (White Handle)

[Alan Smith]

Sword #2 (w/ white handle)

[Alan Smith]

Sword #2

[Alan Smith]

Sword # 2

[Alan Smith]

Sword #2 Handguard

[Alan Smith]

Sword #1 Handguard

[Alan Smith]

Handle Wrappings - Swords #1 & #2

[Edokko]

First one is a suriage (shortened) sword and is cut off in the middle of the signature "Bishu Osafune......" and means Bishu Province Osafune School, but missing the actual smith name.

Second sword says Yukimune-saku (Made by Yukimune), and looks like a Showa-to.

[Alan Smith]

Edokko,

Thanks for the information. Do you have any estimate as to when each of these swords was produced?

Alan

[Edokko]

It is very difficult to make a good estimate on age without looking at it live, but the first sword is "probably" 17th century or older. The 2nd sword most likely made between 1940 to 1945. Hope this helps.